Stephen M. Bessette
Executive Vice President, Retail Lending

Steve, a Charlestown, R.I. resident, is responsible for consumer, mortgage and small business lending, as well as merchant card services.

Steve joined Washington Trust in February 1997, bringing more than 25 years of financial experience to the senior management team. He previously served as president of New England Pacific Mortgage Company in Warwick, R.I., and as president of Old Stone Mortgage Corporation in Seattle, Wash.

Steve received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College in 1969. He is chairman of the board of the South Shore Mental Health Center and a director of the Rhode Island Council of Community Mental Health Organizations, Rhode Island Mortgage Bankers Association, Rhode Island Appraisal Review Board and the Freddie Mac Regional Lending Advisory Board.